The gala dinner scheduled for Zulu King Misuzulu KaZwelithini on Thursday, 29 May, has been cancelled, according to the Premier’s Office. The event was intended to “honour” His Majesty, but many Free State residents expressed their dissatisfaction, questioning the purpose of the gala while service delivery issues persist in the province.
The Zulu King was expected to be in the province to attend a Supreme Court matter related to his kingship; however, it is alleged that he will not be attending in person. Some people visited the Free State Provincial Government Facebook page to voice their shock and discontent, questioning why the province would roll out the carpet for the Zulu King instead of focusing on local traditional leaders and pressing service delivery concerns.
In a statement released by the provincial government, they acknowledged the public sentiment surrounding the planned gala dinner and confirmed that the dinner would be cancelled due to the King’s “unavailability,” as he will be sending his regiments, amabutho, in his place.
“Due to circumstances, His Majesty Misuzulu ka Zwelithini will no longer be coming to the province; instead, he will be sending his regiments, the Amautho. In light of the King’s unavailability, the gala dinner will no longer take place,” the statement read.
The provincial government also addressed the public outcry, emphasizing that they maintain mutual respect with the Free State House of Traditional Leaders and Khoisan leaders. They dismissed any suggestions to the contrary, stating their respect and high regard for the Provincial House of Traditional Leaders and Khoisan leaders.
“The Premier is the No. 1 citizen of the province, and it is not uncommon for the Premier to host dignitaries of His Majesty’s stature. Similar events have taken place with other notable visitors to the province,” stated the provincial government.
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